Let my Pets Decide Rule

Aka. L.P.D.R., A social norm where before getting into a long term serious relationship with another person, one of the people in the relationship insists that they have to see if their pets like their partner, which if their pets don't like their partner, they will not get into relationship with that person. It is good way to ensure your partner is trustworthy, and is a highly ethical behavior, for you are making sure your whole family, not just the people, but your pets too, like and trust your partner. The only issue with this rule is the fact that if your pet suffers from social aggression, territorial aggression, and or fear-related anxiety it can negatively impact their ability to accurately evaluate that person. If this is the case, the owner should work with their veterinarian, dog trainer, and cat behaviorist to try to treat their pet's condition before using this approach. This same norm also occurs when two people who have been in a romantic relationship are considering moving in together, so they decide to have their pets meet beforehand to see if their pets are compatible and can easily get along, which good way to prevent unnecessary conflicts before they happen. If they don't get along, the individuals may need to hold off until they can get a veterinary professional to diagnose the problem and attempt to treat it so it can be controlled or eliminated.

Adam: How are you and Victoria doing these days?
Earl: We're doing pretty good, but she insists that before we get more serious that she wants me to meet her dog and cat to see if they like me and go from there.
Adam: She is using the Let my Pets Decide Rule. You do realize if they don't like you that there is strong possibility she will end your relationship.
Earl: Yes, but I'm not worried. A friend of mine knows her and has met her dogs. He told me they tend to be very friendly.

by Vanguard 1998 February 10, 2021